Oryx and Crake

Oryx and Crake Study Guide

Published in 2003, Oryx and Crake is a post-apocalyptic novel set in an unspecified future. The book is written in the same style as many of Margaret Atwood's novels, that of speculative fiction. Although the book reads as if it is telling a futuristic tale, in actuality many of the scientific and cultural trends are drawn from our own, current society. In this way, Atwood can be read as a critic of modern life. By highlighting some of the more grotesque elements of present-day life, Atwood provides an intellectual space for readers to not only digest such information, but also a space that helps readers to consider the possible future trajectories.

Oryx and Crake is "both" finished and told from a different vantage point in The Year of the Flood (2009). The sequel was written after countless requests to Atwood for a more complete ending.

Glenn, renamed Crake during the playing of Extinctathon, is Jimmy's peer and best friend. He is a brilliant student and spends most of his time living in a world of ideas. After high school, he attends the prestigious Watson-Crick Institute where...